4 Surprising Reasons for Foot Pain
It’s not always easy to get to the root of foot and ankle discomfort. At NY Foot Health, we’re dedicated to educating patients about podiatric health and ways to be proactive in caring for your feet. If your foot pain is not being caused by an obvious condition or injury, consider the following possible sources:
Not Getting Any Younger—some aches and pains are the result of the aging process. Over the years, cartilage can start to wear down causing joint pain and arthritis. Fat pads may begin to thin in areas such as your heels and arches may begin to flatten. However, foot pain as you age isn’t “normal” or untreatable. Oftentimes simple changes in fitness routine, diet and footwear can help relieve these and other age-related symptoms.
Sounding a Warning Bell—many patients don’t realize your feet are often the first place that several systemic disorders first show symptoms. Diabetes, arthritis, peripheral arterial disease, and other issues that can affect your entire body may first manifest in your lower extremities.
Carrying Excess Weight—did you put on a few pandemic pounds? Extra weight is felt most keenly in your feet that have to support our entire body. Arch and heel pain, discomfort in the ball of the foot, and the risk for several podiatric disorders, such as plantar fasciitis are all more likely in patients who are overweight.
Footwear Faux Pas—a commonly overlooked source of foot pain are your shoes. Many times, design defects like lack of arch support or deficient insole cushioning can be the source of discomfort. If you notice your feet hurting after wearing shoes that have always been comfortable in the past, it may be time for a replacement. Shoes that lose their structure and padding, worn down soles, and stretched out heel counters can all lead to aching feet.
It’s important to seek a podiatrist’s evaluation of unexplained foot pain promptly. In most cases, podiatric issues are most successfully resolved when treated in their early stages. If you don’t currently see a podiatrist, use our online directory to find one in your area. To keep abreast of foot health news, subscribe to our free e-newsletter or contact us.